Assembly to investigate future of Royal Parks

Richmond Park, home to over 600 deer, is one the parks affected. Photo: MayorWatchPlans to give City Hall a greater say in the management of the Royal Parks are to be investigated by the London Assembly.

In January the coalition set out proposals to “pass control of the Royal Parks from the DCMS to the Greater London Authority” and committed the Government to “legislate when the opportunity arises”.

These plans were subsequently watered down with the parks set to “remain in Crown ownership, under the overall responsibility of the Culture Secretary” and City Hall merely gaining “a voice in the parks’ management.”

The London Assembly’s Environment Committee will meet next Wednesday (12th October) to discuss the Royal Parks Agency’s work and question Sir Edward Lister, Boris Johnson’s Chief of Staff, on the Mayor’s new role and vision for The Royal Parks.

Committee Chair Murad Qureshi said: “Millions of Londoners and visitors enjoy our royal parks every year. Not only do they provide facilities for play, sport, catering and entertainment, but they are home to many species of plants and animals.

“We are keen to explore the future plans for the royal parks, as it is important that generations to come will also be able to enjoy all they have to offer.”

The committee is asking Londoners to share their views on whether the parks currently meet the needs of local people.